Fibromyalgia affects approximately 10 million Americans, states the National Fibromyalgia Association. It consists of a group of symptoms that can interfere with everyday functioning and be quite painful. Treatments exist for this condition, but different treatments may work for different people. Ayurveda is an alternative approach to medicine that may help individuals with fibromyalgia; if you are interested in using Ayurveda to relieve your symptoms, talk with your doctor about your options.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes diffuse musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep and mood disturbances. According to MayoClinic.com, it is hypothesized that fibromyalgia impacts the way your brain processes pain signals, making sensations of pain even more painful. It is not known what causes fibromyalgia, but the disorder can develop after a traumatic event, emotional stress or simply occur over time, with no particular trigger. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment can include pain medication, antidepressants, psychotherapy and anti-seizure drugs. Lifestyle changes like getting regular physical exercise, stress reduction techniques and getting adequate sleep can all help relieve symptoms as well.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is an approach to health that has been practiced for thousands of years in India. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that Ayurveda aims to prevent or treat sickness by balancing the body through diet and lifestyle approaches and herbs. One type of Ayurveda, called Maharishi Ayurveda, encourages practicing transcendental meditation and heightened consciousness for health. Treatment in Ayurveda involves balancing energies in each individual through breathing exercises, mantras, yoga, cleanses and herbs. If you are interested in seeing an Ayurvedic practitioner, choose a professional who is certified in Ayurvedic medicine.
Ayurveda for Treating Fibromyalgia
A 2009 study by L. B. Rasmussen et al., published in "Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology," found that individuals suffering from fibromyalgia found symptom relief from Maharishi Ayurveda. Pain, fatigue, stiffness, anxiety and depression were all lessened with Ayurvedic treatment. Stress may exacerbate symptoms of fibromyalgia, and practicing yoga and reducing stress can reduce symptoms. MayoClinic.com adds that meditation and acupuncture may also help alleviate fibromyalgia symptoms. Talk with your doctor about your current treatment and whether adding Ayurvedic treatments may benefit you.
Considerations
Herbs like winter cherry and boswellia are used in Ayurveda, and though herbs are natural, there is the possibility of herbs interacting with medications. Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications or supplements to avoid any adverse interactions between the drugs and herbs. Ayurveda is not meant to be a replacement for your treatment, but a complementary treatment. Talk with your health care provider before altering your current treatment plan.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Fibromyalgia; Mayo Clinic Staff; January 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Ayurveda; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; September 2009
- "Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology"; Treatment of Fibromyalgia at the Maharishi Ayurveda Health Centre in Norway. A Six-Month Follow-Up Study; L.B. Rasmussen et al.; 2009
- National Fibromyalgia Association; Fibromyalgia Fact Sheet; 2009
